Expectations of Swimmers and Parents

Joining the swim team is something that will require a lot of dedication, both on the part of the swimmer as well as the parent. As our swim season runs from September to late February (and in some cases, mid-March), please note that at least two nights a week will be spent at practice, and many Saturdays will be spent at meets. We realize that these swimmers are young, but we also believe that discipline is learned early on, and if they make the swim team a part of their lives, they will have fun, make long-lasting friendships, and become better people in the process. In some cases, children participate in many different activities and may not have the time to come to practice as much as is required- please read the following guidelines before committing to joining the team.

*Swimmers are required to attend dual meets on weekends. Meets are a very important part of being on the swim team- they allow swimmers to gauge their progress by competing against other swimmers in their age group and bond with other swimmers on the team. We do not consider meets to be optional. Swimmers will be excused in the case of family emergencies, weddings, funerals, previously planned vacations etc. at the discretion of the coaching staff.

*If not participating in a meet, the Head Coach must be notified by the Wednesday before the meet.

*Respect for the coaches is mandatory. Remember, the coaching staff is here to help you and make competitive swimming a fun and rewarding experience.

*Older swimmers have a responsibility to be a positive role model for younger team members and take an active interest in their progress.

*This is a competitive swim program that requires individuals to have intentions to improve through practice. Often you hear a coach say the experience should be “fun”. Remember, fun does not mean you do not strive for a reasonable level of improvement. Realistic expectations mean, “I believe in the swimmer and respect their potential.” Anything less than this is not satisfying to the swimmer and therefore not “fun”.

*Parents are asked to support their kids in their swimming endeavors. This includes positive reinforcement and attending dual meets to cheer them on. We also ask that parents come to the monthly meetings held by the parent’s organization. We rely heavily on our parents to volunteer at meets- timers, officials, people to bake for and run the concession, etc. Your help is always needed and greatly appreciated.